Saudi Arabia’s Film AlUla has signed a take care of The MBS Group, which includes Manhattan Beach Studios – dwelling to James Cameron’s “Avatar” sequels – which can solely handle and function their state-of-the-art AlUla Studios.
Under the deal MBS Group’s newly established regional unit, MBS MENA Limited, “will work in close collaboration with Film AlUla to develop a robust production pipeline and ensure smooth studio operations — maximising occupancy, streamlining production schedules, and managing leasing for both local and international projects,” MBS Group and Film AlUla stated in a joint assertion.
The partnership marks MBS Group’s’ first operational footprint within the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) area, including to its world community of roughly fifty services. Besides Manhattan Beach Studios, that are the corporate’s namesake, these embody Amazon’s Culver Studios, Netflix’s Raleigh Studios, Radford Studio Center, Kaufman Astoria Studios, Eastbrook Studios London, Vancouver Film Studios, and Ardmore Studios Ireland.
Film AlUla is the movie fee for the swathe of northwest Saudi Arabia roughly the dimensions of Belgium that additionally includes a lush oasis and huge sandstone canyons. Its filmmaking services embody two giant soundstages, every spanning 25,828 sq. ft., a backlot, and manufacturing assist buildings.
The AlUla advanced additionally includes a recording studio designed to accommodate a 32-piece orchestra, coaching and rehearsal areas, administrative workplaces, and occasion areas.
The assertion underlined that The MBS Group’s know-how will permit Film AlUla to scale-up as wanted going ahead. “Their global experience positions AlUla Studios to integrate cutting-edge innovations over time — including future capabilities such as volumetric stages and next-generation virtual production infrastructure—ensuring the facility remains at the forefront of technological advancement,” it stated.
“We are grateful for the opportunity to expand our international presence into the growing MENA region,” stated Jason Hariton, chief studio and actual property officer at The MBS Group. “We see AlUla as a premier destination for global content creators,” he added, noting that “The city offers proximity to remarkable landscapes and first-class accommodation — and some of the industry’s best financial incentives for filmmakers.”
Commented Zaid Shaker, performing govt director of Film AlUla: “Partnering with MBStudios to operate AlUla Studios is a strategic leap forward in our mission to position AlUla as the premier production hub in the region.”
“Their unmatched global experience brings the operational excellence needed to anchor long-term industry growth, attract high-calibre productions, and build local capabilities,” he added.
The deal envisions supporting Film AlUla’s core mission to develop a sustainable movie ecosystem by creating financial alternatives and fascinating and coaching the native workforce.
